Dealing with Difficult People

One of the best skills you will ever learn in your life is how to deal with difficult people, not just in the workplace, but in any environment. Inevitably, situations will arise in which you will need to be well-equipped in interacting with people who are unnecessarily unfriendly, rude, or simply do not want to cooperate. Learning how to handle people like that is an important aspect of teamwork and knowing how to deal with someone who is difficult and uncooperative will come handy in many different circumstances. It is important to learn about conflict-resolution and gain the courage to know what to do when someone is being unjust or unreasonably difficult. This will help not just you personally and as an employee, but those around you, and the workplace environment as well.
 
There are different ways in which a person can be challenging. Someone who is difficult might be a generally tough person to deal with, and this can be something that your co-workers recognize or experience as well. This situation can be easier to deal with, since it can be comforting and helpful to know that you are not alone in approaching the person and addressing the issues that may exist because of their temperament or behavior. You may want to discuss the issue with your co-workers or boss and seek their help in addressing any problems that are occurring in the workplace due to the difficult individual. Create a plan of approach that allows the other person to also speak their concerns and work alongside you to create a better work environment.
 
Conversely, a difficult person may also affect you personally, and single you out in a manner that is quite similar to bullying. In these situations, it can be hard to stand up for yourself and speak out, particularly if these interactions are not evident or do not occur in front of others. It is very important that you recognize your right to speak up for yourself, and to address the issue individually or with the help of another co-worker or boss as a mediator if necessary. It is best that you address the issue when it comes up, rather than ignoring it and letting your discomfort or anger simmer. Ignoring the problem might lead to more difficulties. If the issue you are having with a co-worker is one in which you may be able to resolve between yourselves, the best thing to do is to take them aside and communicate your concerns with a good and friendly attitude. Be open to addressing mistakes on your part. Be prepared to set aside your emotions and to be reasonable, giving the other person the time to explain their side of the situation too.
 
Dealing with difficult bosses or managers can be more difficult, since they tend to have more authority over you and thus it is more distressful to approach them and discuss any issues you may be dealing with. Like your co-workers, you must approach them with reason and be prepared to hold your ground in addressing any problems. Communication is a necessary part of solving conflicts, and this goes for co-workers, bosses, or anyone.
 
Never forget that you have a big role in creating and maintaining meaningful and cooperative relationships at work. Approaching your job and co-workers with a positive and uplifting attitude can have a great impact not just on yourself and the work you do, but on the others as well. The situations you may deal with, and your reactions to them, can have a great impact on whether the conflict worsens or gets better. Sometimes, with your friendliness and willingness to adapt, you can even help to resolve difficulties without ever having to confront the other person at all.
 
These difficult people and conflicts can arise in any environment, even outside of work. It is very important to learn how to deal with problems that arise, and there are many ways that you can better prepare and equip yourself to do so. In the end, it is best to remember that sometimes people can be difficult, and it is not your fault, or your responsibility to change them. If the situation or person becomes too arduous to handle, always know that leaving your current employment for a better workplace environment is always an option, too.

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